Since the beginning of our collaboration I have found Andris Dzenītis to be the very model of what a contemporary composer should stand for in our day and age. I regularly perform Andris’ music because it has a high emotional and artistic message. He writes very well for orchestra, which means that the musicians very quickly understand his structural and musical intentions. In fact, that is precisely why his music is so successful, because the public immediately hears music that reaches their hearts and minds and in so doing relates to the collective power of the musical experience. Andris is also deeply committed to helping shape the performance of his works. He has always been present at rehearsals for all the performances I have given of his compositions. This commitment to excellence is another reason why it is a great pleasure to collaborate with him now and indeed in the future.